A Short Walk Through a Wide World

by Douglas Westerbeke

[Quirky Cat]

Book Summary:

Aubry Tourvel was nine years old when her life changed forever. She went to make a wish (and a sacrifice) at the local well – and backed out. She believes that was the moment she became cursed. From that moment on, Aubry's life became a series of timers ticking down.

She cannot stay in the same place for more than three days. To do so would be to court death. This isn't Aubry being dramatic, as she has tried many times to make a place for herself in the world, only to be violently shunted forward once again. Will she ever find the end to her long walk?

My Review:

The moment I read the description forA Short Walk Through a Wide World, I knew I had to read it. It sounded so different and compelling. Also, it was favorably compared to The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue (one of my all-time favorites), so duh. Had to buy it.

Aubry's journey through the world is magical, haunted, lyrical, and powerful. There were times I found myself utterly enchanted with the story. And then there were other times when I felt like the story itself was...lingering.

That isn't to say that I didn't enjoy it. I felt a lack of connection to the story, much of which I blame on the pacing. A slow pace can work for many stories, but here, it just made Aubry's journey feel meandering. If this book had been five chapters shorter, it probably would have been much stronger—at least to this reader.

As for the comparison to The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue, hrm. It has a similar vibe, maybe? But overall, I'd say that they are two wholly different and unique novels.

Highlights:
Magical Realism
Always on the Move
Adventures Around the Globe
Mysterious Illness

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